February 18, 2008

Testing, testing, 1-2-3: SAT and SAT study tips

Each year, we get many questions about how we handle SAT and ACT scores. Although we do not use a minimum test score to determine a student's potential for admission to Case, test scores are considered during the admission process and play an important role in scholarship review. Take a look at these tips on preparing for the SAT and ACT.

• Take intense classes and excel at them. The hard work will pay off. In fact, we look for students who take the most challenging courses offered at their high schools.

• Read, read, read. This will help you with the critical reading components of the SAT and boost your vocabulary as well.

• Practice makes perfect. Take multiple sample tests that use actual questions from previous exams. This will help you become familiar with the many quirks of the real SAT or ACT.

• Know your strengths, but work on your weaknesses. It’s a good idea to review each section of the SAT or ACT, but it’s important that you spend the most time studying and practicing questions in your weakest subject area.

The makers of the SAT and the ACT offer a variety of practice tools, some for free and many for purchase. Also, check with your guidance counselor and your friends or siblings who have taken the exam for other test tips.

Related
Case requires either the SAT Reasoning or the ACT with Writing for admission. Test scores must be submitted to us via the testing agency: Case's SAT code is 1105; our ACT code is 3244. Case does not require SAT subject tests, but you may send us your scores if you feel they strengthen your application. Learn more about our application requirements.

Posted by tlm42 at 09:53 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

August 29, 2006

Who cares about SATs?

It's been a long time - nearly 20 years - since I took the SAT (yikes, I'm getting OLD!) but I still remember how nervous I was before the test.

The test itself is a blur now. I basically recall only one thing about it: a very boring reading passage about the moon. I do remember my feelings afterward, though, when I walked home after the test, mulling over questions I was unsure about and pondering my future. For weeks after the test, my AP classes were a-buzz with everyone talking about SATs, ACTs and colleges they were applying to. It was an anxious time, for sure.

How do YOU feel about the SAT and ACT? Do you feel enormous pressure to perform well on these tests? How many times have you taken it?


Posted by lac20 at 04:09 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack